Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Hotel Tour: The Drake

Two nights in San Francisco really wasn't enough time to get properly acquainted with the city but it did give us an introduction into its fun and quirky side. We stayed at the Sir Francis Drake, known as "The Drake" but also known for the friendly Beefeaters who greet you at the door.

This is an historic hotel that has been renovated with a mix of baroque style and contemporary glamour. This combination does not usually appeal to me personally but the red chest of drawers in the bedroom won me over - yep, that's all it took, one piece of furniture to steal my heart!

It's the "over-the-top" grandness that makes this place fun, and there is so much of it from the ornately decorated furniture, the detailed ceilings, chandeliers and large swirling staircases, with a bonus that the hotel is located in the heart of the city.

I was inspired by this hotel for the way they created a playful spin on what could have otherwise been just another nice old grand hotel.

Maybe there is some inspiration in here for you? Also, does the artwork by the bed scare you too, even just a little bit?This post is dedicated to my friend Emily Sephton.

ish & chi is a design blog by interior designer Vivian Panagos featuring tours, interviews with creatives, decorating and style ideas, and a portfolio of projects including the makeover of her Sydney home.